The preserved remains of Mali, the longtime Manila Zoo elephant, went on display Thursday, Aug. 27, at the National Museum of Natural History in Ermita.

Vishwa Ma’ali, widely known as Mali, was born in Sri Lanka and orphaned after hunters killed her mother.

Brought to the Philippines as a gift, she became one of the country’s most recognized animals until her death at 43 on Nov. 28, 2023, from congestive heart failure.

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso joined museum officials in unveiling Ma’ali’s new home.

In a Facebook post, he assured residents: “Sa mga Batang Maynila, pumanatag po kayo. Nasa maayos at ligtas na pangangalaga si Ma’ali (To the children of Manila, rest assured. Ma’ali is in good and safe hands).”

“With the capabilities, skills, and experience of the National Museum, Ma’ali is in good hands,” he added.

He invited Manileños and Filipinos who grew up with Mali to visit her again: “Tinatawagan ko ang lahat ng mamamayan ng lungsod ng Maynila, ang mga dumadayo sa Maynila, at lahat ng Pilipinong may karanasan at alaala kay Ma’ali—muli ninyo siyang masisilayan sa kanyang bagong tahanan sa National Museum (I invite all residents of Manila, visitors, and all Filipinos who have experiences and memories with Ma’ali to see her once again at her new home at the National Museum).”

Domagoso also expressed gratitude to the museum: “Again, to the National Museum, thank you, thank you sa inyong lahat. Malaking bagay ito para sa mga Batang Maynila (This means a lot for the children of Manila).”

The exhibit is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with free admission. (Shane Quiachon)